Bingham Collection Shatters Auction Records

Earlier this year the Great Collections Coin Auction of Greg Bingham's exceptional 144-coin, complete set of classic commemorative half dollars shattered many previously published price records and far exceeded price guide indications.

- MIKE FULJENZ

Bingham's commemorative sets had received recognition for their exceptional quality from certification services in their competitive online Registry programs.

Greg Bingham, 71, was an all-star linebacker for the Purdue Boilermakers and the Houston Oilers (1973-1985). He was also a history buff and the history behind rare coins most interested him. Bingham noted, "I'm a monster tor collector in other words, it's like collecting artwork with pretty colors."

Toning on silver coins is a slow, natural process where a coin turns color over time. Many collectors pay substantially more for coins with beautiful toning because the attractive colors make the coin stand out. Toning on a silver coin is a chemical reaction from moisture which serves as a catalyst for oxidation.